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Rabat – The question of the Moroccan Sahara is no longer a matter of uncertainty or ideological posturing; it is a question of realism, responsibility, and the future well-being of the Sahrawi people as full Moroccan citizens. Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for the Sahara stands today as the most serious, credible, and pragmatic solution endorsed by an increasing number of responsible nations and international actors.
For years, I have had the honor of representing voices in support of Morocco at the United Nations Fourth Committee on Decolonisation, where I have consistently maintained that the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative offers a definitive path toward peace, regional stability, and human dignity.
This initiative is inclusive, democratic, and forward-looking. It places governance, development, and cultural identity in the hands of the Sahrawi population within Morocco’s sovereignty.
Sahrawis are Moroccan citizens
Meanwhile, when speaking or writing about the Sahara, it is essential to reaffirm a fundamental truth: the Sahrawi people are Moroccan citizens with deep historical, cultural, and spiritual ties to the Moroccan nation.
Morocco has never treated the Sahara as a peripheral territory but as an integral part of the Moroccan nation, investing heavily in infrastructure, healthcare, education, renewable energy, and employment opportunities. These efforts have transformed the region into a development hub connecting Africa, Europe, and the Atlantic world.
The Autonomy Plan guarantees local self-governance, preservation of Sahrawi identity, and democratic participation, while ensuring stability and security for future generations. This is precisely the balance the international community seeks in resolving complex territorial disputes.
A responsible state vs. a destabilizing narrative
In contrast, the continued insistence on separation promoted by the Polisario movement has led only to prolonged suffering, regional instability, and the political exploitation of vulnerable populations in camps deprived of basic freedoms.
Multiple credible reports have highlighted the lack of transparency, forced confinement, and radicalisation risks associated with Polisario-controlled areas. The movement’s alignment with destabilising actors in the Sahel raises serious concerns about security and extremism in an already fragile region.
The international community must recognize that perpetuating this conflict serves no one, least of all the Sahrawi people.
Leadership of vision: King Mohammed VI
No discussion of Morocco’s progress would be complete without acknowledging the exceptional leadership of King Mohammed VI. His vision for Africa, interfaith dialogue, climate action, and human development has positioned Morocco as a pillar of moderation and stability in a turbulent world. The Sahara development model reflects his belief that peace is built through opportunity, dignity, and inclusive growth.
It is not an exaggeration to say that King Mohammed VI’s leadership merits global recognition at the highest level. His sustained commitment to peaceful resolution, regional cooperation, and humanitarian development aligns fully with the principles celebrated by the Nobel Peace Prize.
A call for international responsibility
The Moroccan Autonomy Plan offers a workable and responsible path towards a lasting solution. It respects international law, responds to realities on the ground, and prioritises people over politics. As more nations publicly support Morocco’s position, it is time for international institutions to move beyond outdated frameworks and embrace a future-oriented approach.
Peace in the Sahara will come not through slogans or separatist illusions, but through responsible governance, inclusive citizenship, and visionary leadership. Morocco has offered that path. The world should have the courage to walk it.
